Pandemic Influenza

What You Should Know

An influenza or flu pandemic may occur when a new flu virus strain begins to be easily spread around the world from person to person. A pandemic flu virus is different from the seasonal flu or bird flu. The seasonal influenza virus is the “regular” flu that occurs each year, usually in the fall and winter. In the event of a pandemic flu, everyone will be at risk. An influenza pandemic may cause severe illness and death, even among healthy individuals. Understanding how influenza viruses spread and how to reduce your risk of contracting influenza is the first step to being prepared.

Preparing for an influenza pandemic is different from planning for other emergencies or disasters and just as important. If an influenza pandemic occurs, many people may be sick for a long period of time. The flu may also occur in waves that might last several weeks or months. This could have a huge societal and economic impact. Because of this, it’s important for you and your family to be prepared.

What You Can Do

Your Pandemic Flu Emergency Kit

During a pandemic, individuals and families may be expected to take care of themselves and their families for quite awhile. Having a well-stocked emergency kit can make a huge difference.Learn More

Home Care for Influenza (flu)

People with influenza are infectious and can pass on the virus to others 1 day before, and up to a week after the start of flu symptoms. Knowing how to care for sick family members will help protect you from getting sick with the flu.Learn More

"No Ordinary Flu"
A Pandemic Influenza Preparedness comic book

Learn more about the 1918 pandemic influenza, what to expect if a flu pandemic were to occur today, and how you can prepare for one. From the Seattle-King County Public Health Department.

contacts

Ada County

Elmore County

Boise County

Valley County

208-327-7499

208-587-4407

208-327-7499

208-634-7194

central district health department

CDHD, Public Health District IV, is one of seven public health districts within the state of Idaho, serving the counties of Ada, Boise, Elmore, and Valley. The health districts were established in 1970 under Idaho Code to ensure essential public health services are made available to protect the health of all citizens of the state - no matter how large or small their county population. With a vision of Healthy People in Healthy Communities, CDHD's emphasis is on decreasing risk factors for chronic disease, improving quality of life and increasing the years of healthy life among residents.